How should staff engage with residents during cohorting?

Maintaining a 2-3 feet distance when possible during cohorting is essential for minimizing the risk of disease transmission among residents in a nursing home setting. This practice is aligned with infection control guidelines that emphasize physical distancing to reduce close contact, which is a primary way that respiratory illnesses, including infections, can spread. By keeping a safe distance, staff can help protect both residents and themselves, especially if a resident or staff member is contagious or symptomatic.

Effective cohorting strategies are critical in nursing homes, particularly during an outbreak of infections. Maintaining some distance, while still allowing for essential interactions, shows an adherence to infection prevention protocols that prioritize the health and safety of all individuals in the facility. This approach enables staff to engage with residents, providing necessary attention and care while being conscious of infection risks.

The other options may not emphasize the importance of physical distancing in infection prevention effectively. For example, conducting interviews privately can be essential for confidentiality, but it does not directly address infection control measures. Promoting shared equipment use could increase the risk of cross-contamination, while avoiding verbal communication altogether could hinder necessary interactions and affect resident well-being. Thus, maintaining distance while allowing for safe engagement is a crucial balance in infection prevention during cohorting.